Addis Ababa: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and UN Secretary General António Guterres inaugurated African hall, a landmark of liberation and a symbol of Pan-African unity today.

Originally inaugurated in 1961 by Ethiopia’s Emperor Haile Selassie, Africa Hall is the birthplace of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), now the African Union (AU), and has witnessed numerous pivotal moments in Africa’s history.

After years of intensive renovation, Africa Hall, the iconic birthplace of the Organization of African Unity has been inaugurated today reflecting on Africa’s past, and present with a focus on a sustainable future.

The renovation amplifies its cultural significance as a heritage with tourism potential for Ethiopia, beyond one of the state-of-the-art conferencing venues with modern facilities, visitors centre, a permanent exhibition, and cinema room for screenings and public events, while respecting the architectural and artistic vision of the ’60s.

The new visitor’s centre will welcome the public to learn
about Africa’s history, the African Union and the United Nations.

The renovation offers a 360° upgrade: from updating conferencing equipment to complying with current fire hazard requirements and building codes.

It also includes accessibility for people with disabilities, lighting, waterproofing ceilings and restoring original furnishing.

Africa hall is a prestigious landmark where the continent’s history shaped and returns.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency